What the Bible says about Accusation
(From Forerunner Commentary)
This continues the thought in verses 22-23, but it focuses on friendly words concealing hatred until the person sees the chance to pull the other down. He may speak graciously, but be careful! This sounds similar to the way the media approaches public figures, who are fair game for every abominable accusation, though they are unsubstantiated.
John W. Ritenbaugh
The Ninth Commandment (1997)Related Topics: Accusation | Character Assassination | Lying | Ninth Commandment | Speech | The Ninth Commandment
Pergamos was no more wicked than other cities of the day—consider, for example, Corinth and Ephesus. Some commentators say the governor of Pergamos, like Satan, heavily persecuted the church and likely oversaw the martyrdom of Antipas. Satan, king of all the children of pride (Job 41:34), deceives the whole world and is the accuser or persecutor of the brethren (Revelation 12:9-10). The lesson for us may be that where criticism, put-down, and persecution of others are common, Satan spends a great deal of time, taking bizarre, twisted pleasure in accusation and negativity. The Devil dwells where pride and self-exaltation are present, attitudes we must avoid diligently.
Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The Seven Churches (Part Five): PergamosRelated Topics: Accusation | Antipas | Criticism | Martyrdom | Negative Attitude | Negativism | Negativity | Pergamos, Church of | Persecution | Pride | Put Down | Satan's Attitudes | Satan's Character | Self Exaltation